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Tecalitlán facts for kids

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Tecalitlán
Municipality and town
Coat of arms of Tecalitlán
Coat of arms
Location of the city in Jalisco
Location of the city in Jalisco
Country  Mexico
State Jalisco
Area
 • Total 1,301 km2 (502 sq mi)
 • Town 3.66 km2 (1.41 sq mi)
Population
 (2020 Census)
 • Total 16,705
 • Density 12.840/km2 (33.256/sq mi)
 • Town
13,243
 • Town density 3,618/km2 (9,371/sq mi)
Time zone UTC-6 (Central Standard Time)
 • Summer (DST) UTC-5 (Central Daylight Time)

Tecalitlán is a lively town and municipality located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It is found just south of Ciudad Guzmán. In 2020, about 16,705 people lived in the municipality. This area is famous for its rich culture and traditions.

What is the Economy Like?

The economy of Tecalitlán has changed over time.

How People Make a Living

Years ago, a big part of Tecalitlán's economy was growing sugar cane. This industry ended about thirty years ago. Today, people mostly work in agriculture. They raise animals like cattle, pigs, chickens, and goats. Many families in Tecalitlán also get help from relatives. These relatives have moved to the United States and send money back home. This money helps support their families.

Fun Facts About Culture

Tecalitlán is a very special place for Mexican culture.

The Home of Mariachi Music

This town is known as the heart of mariachi music. Mariachi is a traditional Mexican music style. The most famous mariachi group, Vargas de Tecalitlán, started here in the 1890s. Even though they now live in Mexico City, their roots are in Tecalitlán. You can even visit a museum dedicated to this famous mariachi group in the town.

Special Traditions and Festivals

Tecalitlán has many interesting traditions. One important event is the fiestas de diciembre. These celebrations happen in December. They honor religion and show love for the Virgin of Guadalupe. People in Tecalitlán are known for being very friendly and welcoming.

Sunday Social Time in the Jardin

A unique tradition happens every Sunday after church. People gather in the town center, called the Jardin (which means "garden"). They spend the afternoon chatting and having fun. It's a special way for everyone to socialize.

  • Young People's Walk: Girls walk one way around the park's sidewalk. Boys walk the other way. This allows them to see and greet each other. Girls often link arms and chat as they walk.
  • Confetti Eggs: Street vendors sell hollowed-out eggshells filled with confetti. If someone admires another person, they might crack a confetti egg over their head! It's a fun way to show admiration. It's considered an honor to have an egg cracked on your head.
  • Family Time: Parents and older people sit on benches. They enjoy watching the young people interact. It's a safe and happy environment for everyone.

Cerro de la Cruz

There is a mountain called Cerro de la Cruz, which means "Hill of the Cross." A large cross stands at the top. People often visit this cross to reflect or offer prayers.

Delicious Local Foods

Tecalitlán is also famous for its tasty food! A local favorite is birria. This is a savory stew made from goat meat and other ingredients. You can also find many other traditional Mexican foods here. These include tacos, sopes, pozole, tostadas, and enchiladas.

Famous People from Tecalitlán

The comedian and singer Cessy Casanova was born and grew up here. Her father and brother were both guitarron players. They played with the famous Vargas de Tecalitlán mariachi group.

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